The SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination is among the most sought-after government job opportunities in India. Beyond the security and pride associated with these roles, the salaries and benefits make SSC CGL one of the most competitive and sought-after recruitment exams in the country.
In this guide, we’ll break down the SSC CGL salary structure, covering everything from pay levels and allowances to career growth and the advantages that come with these roles.
Key Highlights of SSC CGL Salary
SSC CGL salaries are governed by the 7th Pay Commission, ensuring attractive pay scales across Group B and Group C positions. Here’s a quick overview:
- Pay Levels: From Level-4 to Level-8, depending on the role.
- Grade Pay: Ranges from ₹2,400 to ₹4,800.
- Starting Basic Pay: ₹25,500 to ₹47,600, with additional allowances.
- Maximum Pay: ₹1,51,100 for senior roles.
What makes SSC CGL salaries exceptional is the combination of allowances like Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Transport Allowance (TA), along with benefits like job security, medical coverage, and pension schemes.
SSC CGL Salary Breakdown by Pay Levels
Pay Level-4 (₹25,500 to ₹81,100)
Grade Pay: ₹2,400
| Post Name | Department | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| UDC/Senior Secretariat Assistant | Central Govt Offices other than CSCS | Group C |
| Tax Assistant | CBIC and CBDT | Group C |
| Sub Inspector (SI) | Central Bureau of Narcotics | Group C |
| Upper Division Clerks | Directorate General BRO | Group C |
In-hand salary ranges from ₹36,000 to ₹43,000, depending on the city of posting. Employees in X cities enjoy the highest allowances due to higher cost-of-living adjustments.
Pay Level-5 (₹29,200 to ₹92,300)
Grade Pay: ₹2,800
| Post Name | Department | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Auditor | CAG, CGDA, Other Departments | Group C |
| Accountant | CGDA, Other Ministries | Group C |
| Accountant/Junior Accountant | Ministry Offices | Group C |
With higher responsibilities, in-hand salary in this level ranges from ₹40,000 to ₹48,000. X cities offer the maximum benefits in terms of allowances.
Pay Level-6 (₹35,400 to ₹1,12,400)
Grade Pay: ₹4,200
| Post Name | Department | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant | Various offices of Central Govt | Group B |
| Assistant Superintendent | Central Govt offices | Group B |
| Divisional Accountant | Comptroller & Auditor General | Group B |
| Sub Inspector (SI) | National Investigation Agency | Group B |
| Junior Statistical Officer | Statistics & Programme Implementation Ministry | Group B |
In-hand salary for these positions typically falls between ₹50,000 and ₹58,000, offering a balanced package of pay and perks.
Pay Level-7 (₹44,900 to ₹1,42,400)
Grade Pay: ₹4,600
| Post Name | Department | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Section Officer | CSS, IB, Railways, Ministry of External Affairs | Group B |
| Inspector of Income Tax | Central Board of Direct Taxes | Group B |
| Central Excise/Preventive Officer | CBIC | Group B |
| Sub Inspector (CBI) | Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), MHA | Group B |
With managerial and operational responsibilities, Level-7 posts offer an in-hand salary of ₹58,000 to ₹70,000. These roles come with significant prestige and benefits.
Pay Level-8 (₹47,600 to ₹1,51,100)
Grade Pay: ₹4,800
| Post Name | Department | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Audit Officer | Comptroller & Auditor General (CAG) | Group B Gazetted (Non-Ministerial) |
| Assistant Accounts Officer | Comptroller & Auditor General (CAG) | Group B Gazetted (Non-Ministerial) |
Level-8 positions offer the highest starting salaries in SSC CGL, ranging from ₹68,000 to ₹85,000 in hand. These roles are gazetted, which means greater authority and responsibility.
Additional Benefits of SSC CGL Roles
The salary is just one part of the financial package. SSC CGL employees enjoy several allowances and perks that enhance their overall earnings and job satisfaction:
- Dearness Allowance (DA): Currently 50% of the basic pay, adjusted quarterly to offset inflation.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Varies based on the city:
- 24% of Basic Pay in X cities
- 16% in Y cities
- 8% in Z cities
- Transport Allowance (TA): Covers daily commuting costs.
- Medical Benefits: Comprehensive healthcare for employees and dependents.
- Special Security Allowance: Additional 20% of basic pay for roles like CBI and NIA officers.
Career Growth and Promotions
One of the biggest advantages of SSC CGL roles is the potential for career growth. Employees can advance through departmental exams and regular performance reviews.
- Promotions: Opportunities to rise from Group C to Group B and eventually to higher ranks.
- Gazetted Roles: Positions like Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer come with higher authority and pay.
- Leadership Opportunities: Employees can take on supervisory and managerial responsibilities over time.
Deductions from Salary
To ensure compliance and secure financial benefits, certain deductions are applied to the salary:
Income Tax: Based on taxable income after deductions and exemptions.
National Pension System (NPS): 10% of basic pay plus DA.
Professional Tax: Varies by state.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on SSC CGL Salary
Q1. What is the monthly salary for SSC CGL posts?
The monthly salary for SSC CGL posts, including allowances, ranges between ₹36,000 and ₹85,000 depending on the pay level, post, and city of posting.
Q2. How much is the starting in-hand salary for SSC CGL employees?
The starting in-hand salary varies:
- Level-4: ₹36,000–₹43,000
- Level-5: ₹40,000–₹48,000
- Level-6: ₹50,000–₹58,000
- Level-7: ₹58,000–₹70,000
- Level-8: ₹68,000–₹85,000
Q3. How do city classifications (X, Y, Z) affect the salary?
City classifications impact allowances like HRA and TA. Employees in X cities (metros) get the highest allowances, followed by Y (smaller cities) and Z (rural areas).
Q4. What allowances are included in the SSC CGL salary?
Key allowances include Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), and medical benefits.
Q5. What deductions are made from SSC CGL salaries?
Deductions include contributions to the National Pension System (NPS), income tax, and professional tax (in some states).
Q6. Are SSC CGL employees eligible for a pension?
Yes, SSC CGL employees are covered under the National Pension System (NPS), which provides financial security after retirement.
